Distinguished Flying Cross Law and Legal Definition
Distinguished Flying Cross is a medal awarded to an officer or enlisted member of the U.S. armed forces. This medal is ordinarily awarded when the armed forces personnel distinguishes himself/herself by extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight, subsequent to November 11, 1918. The medal may also be given for an act performed prior to that date when the individual has been recommended for the Medal of Honor, Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, Air Force Cross or Distinguished Service Medal. However, s/he will not be eligible for a Distinguished Flying Cross if s/he has already received the medal for which s/he had been recommended.
The following is a federal statute that defines the term 'Distinguished Flying Cross':
According to 10 USCS § 3749 (a), the President may award a distinguished flying cross of appropriate design with accompanying ribbon to any person who, while serving in any capacity with the Army, distinguishes himself/herself by heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in an aerial flight.
Not more than one Distinguished Flying Cross is awarded to a person. However, for each succeeding act that otherwise justify the award of such a cross, the President may award a suitable bar or other device to be worn as s/he directs.
